By Burnett Munthali
President of the Film Association of Malawi, Dorothy Kingston, has expressed her heartfelt appreciation to Malawians who showed up in large numbers to attend the premiere of the much-anticipated film Welcome to Maula Prison.
She made these remarks during the premiere ceremony currently underway at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
According to Kingston, the overwhelming attendance demonstrates a growing interest and appreciation of local film productions among Malawians.
She said such public support gives filmmakers encouragement and validation that their work is not in vain.
In addition to acknowledging the public, Kingston extended her gratitude to the government of Malawi for supporting the film industry through the Malawi Prison Service.
She noted that Welcome to Maula Prison could not have been possible without the cooperation and involvement of the prison authorities, who opened their doors to filmmakers and offered logistical support.
Kingston emphasized that the film industry in Malawi has significant potential to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country.
She noted that beyond entertainment, film creates jobs, shapes culture, promotes tourism, and tells authentic Malawian stories to both local and international audiences.
“We are rallying for more support from government and the private sector to help promote the growth of the film industry,” she stated during her remarks.
She stressed that consistent investment in the creative sector is vital to ensure the sustainability and professionalism of film production in the country.
Kingston said Malawi is filled with untapped talent that can shine on international platforms if given the right support and training.
She also called upon educational institutions and youth empowerment programs to consider film and media training as strategic sectors for future growth.
The film Welcome to Maula Prison itself stands as a remarkable testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and targeted funding.
The production of the film received substantial financial support from the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA).
This support came through MACRA’s Universal Service Fund, which provided an impressive K17 million to assist with the production of the film.
Kingston praised this initiative, saying it reflects what can be achieved when regulatory bodies recognize the broader value of storytelling and creative communication.
She urged more public institutions and corporate stakeholders to follow MACRA’s example by funding similar projects that empower creatives and expand the country’s cultural footprint.
Kingston concluded by reiterating that the momentum witnessed at the Welcome to Maula Prison premiere must not be allowed to fade.
She said this event should mark a turning point for how Malawi views, supports, and invests in its film industry.
As the curtains rise on Welcome to Maula Prison, the message is clear — Malawi’s film industry is ready to grow, and with continued support, it can become a pillar of national development.
